THE King embraced Raama, seated him beside him on the throne and said: "I am
old; I have enjoyed my life as a man and a king. I have discharged all my duties to my
ancestors. There is nothing left for me to do.
"My only desire is to install you on
the throne of our fathers. Last night I had bad dreams. Those who read, the future advise
me that a great sorrow, even death, may overtake me very soon. Hence I wish to have the
coronation performed tomorrow. Tomorrow, the readers of the stars say, is auspicious.
Something within me says, 'Do this at once.' You and Seeta should prepare for tomorrow's
anointment by fasting tonight. Lie down on a bed of darbha grass and have trusty and
vigilant friends to look after your safety. It seems to me that the present time when
Bharata is away is particularly opportune for your installation. |
